During the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) Summit 2025 held on the island of Lesbos, Greece, the planned rotation of the Board of Rectors of the ERUA took place.
Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, Rector of Mykolas Romeris University (MRU), who has elected Chairperson of the Board of Rectors of ERUA, formally handed over the presidency to Prof. John McCourt, Rector of the University of Macerata, Italy.
The ceremony, held at the Municipality Theatre of Mytilene, was not only a formal moment of transition but also a symbolic milestone of ERUA’s maturity – an event summarizing a year of collaboration, exchange of ideas, and the strengthening of shared values.
Leadership Rooted in Community and Values
In her address, Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė emphasized that MRU’s term of leadership was guided by community spirit, sustainable partnerships, and a commitment to strengthening the role of universities in society. She noted that the presidency was not only an administrative period but also a vibrant experience of academic unity.
“This is more than a rotation of leadership – it is a continuation of our shared academic journey. We are united by the belief that collective intelligence, values-based governance, and open partnership pave the way for the future of European higher education,” said the Rector.
Passing the leadership to Prof. John McCourt, she highlighted the importance of trust and continuity:
“I hand over this role with pride and optimism, knowing that under your leadership, ERUA will continue to grow – upholding diversity, unity, and vision.”
“Reading the Edges” – Seeing Europe from Its Margins
In assuming the presidency, Prof. John McCourt underlined that ERUA connects universities operating on Europe’s “edges” – places where different cultures, languages, and ideas meet.
“ERUA brings together universities located in the territorial margins of Europe – places where ideas have always transcended borders, languages, and traditions. Our shared goal is to turn these margins into centers of creativity, experimentation, and reform,” said Prof. McCourt.
He also referred to this year’s summit theme, “Reading the Edges,” stressing its relevance in contemporary Europe:
“‘Reading the Edges’ is an invitation to understand Europe from its peripheries – where new ideas, solidarity, and visions for the future are born. It reminds us that the most transformative changes often begin on the margins.”
Students – The Heart and Voice of ERUA’s Future
Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė also highlighted the crucial role of students in the ERUA community, emphasizing their active involvement in decision-making and shaping the alliance’s direction:
“Students are our inspiration and the driving force of the future. They remind us why we build this community and whom it serves – a Europe grounded in knowledge, responsibility, and solidarity.”
A New Stage – From Ideas to Structures
This event marks a new phase in ERUA’s development as the alliance moves from conceptual growth to implementing structural solutions – strengthening its legal framework, inter-university cooperation, and the role of universities at both regional and European levels.
The European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) brings together eight European universities united by the mission to redefine the role of higher education in society, promote social responsibility and democracy, and foster regional engagement. The alliance is built on the belief that genuine progress arises where diverse experiences, ideas, and people meet.
